ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages)

Course Information

If you need to learn or improve your English you can join an ESOL class. ESOL classes are run at six levels, from Pre Entry (beginner) to Level 2 (advanced) following the Skills for Life ESOL syllabus in Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking and leading to Cambridge ESOL Skills for Life qualifications.

The following classes are also available:

ESOL Family Learning Hall Garth School, Sure Start Abingdon or Newport School, if you have a child of school age.

ESOL for Work If you are working or doing voluntary work and would like to gain a qualification in ESOL for work.

ESOL Driving Theory


ESOL classes are free to anyone on a means tested benefit, including working tax credit, people seeking asylum who have been in the UK for more than six months, and anyone receiving Section 4 support.
ESOL Family Learning, ESOL for work and ESOL Driv- ing Theory are free.
If you are joining an ESOL class and are not entitled to free classes, the cost will be £40 for ten weeks (2 hours per week), or £80 for ten weeks (4 or more hours per week).
If you have entered the country with a visa (or with a spouse visa have been here for less than one year) the cost will be £67 for ten weeks (2 hours a week) in all classes.

Assessment and Accreditation

Cambridge ESOL Skills for Life accreditation in Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening at all levels. City & Guilds ESOL for Work Entry 3 and Level 1.

What Should I Bring?

Notebook and Pen.

What Can I Do Next?

Learners can progress through the levels or ask for advice and information on other courses that are available.